Cardinal Schönborn decries European immigration restrictions, scheduled execution in Texas
January 18, 2016
Vienna’s Cardinal Christoph Schönborn likened European restrictions on immigration to “a new Iron Curtain” at a press conference in Rome on January 18.
During the press conference—which was devoted to plans for an European Apostolic Congress on Mercy, to be held in April), Cardinal Schönborn said that the crisis of migration is “one of the greatest challenges for the future and for the conscience of the European Union.” He voiced his regret that “there is a risk of people retreating into their shell of borders, barriers, and walls being raised again.”
The Austrian cardinal remarked that the Catholic bishops’ conferences of Europe have “yet to make a bold statement” on the crisis.
On a separate topic, Cardinal Schönborn said that Pope Francis was aware of the scheduled execution of a convicted murderer in Texas this week, and hoping for a reprieve. Richard Allen Masterson, who was convicted of a 2001 murder, is scheduled to die on January 20. “It is frightening,” the cardinal said.
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Further information:
- Schönborn: European bishops must defend the value of welcoming refugees (La Stampa)
- Cardinal Schoenborn: Pope knows of upcoming Texas execution (Vatican Radio)
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Posted by: ILM -
Jan. 20, 2016 8:07 PM ET USA
While they are at it, they should be looking into the executions taking place at Planned Parenthood.
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Posted by: james-w-anderson8230 -
Jan. 18, 2016 11:30 PM ET USA
The Vatican at times seem to have their own brand of political correctness, in the way they decide which executions to highlight.
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Posted by: 1Jn416 -
Jan. 18, 2016 4:45 PM ET USA
I looked into this case and Mr. Masterson is a dangerous man who admitted before trial and after being found guilty what he had done, though at other times claiming innocence. With so many people around the world being executed for less serious offenses or because of their religion, I do not understand why the execution of a convicted murderer who had a fair trial comes to the attention of the highest levels of the Holy See.
